Explore winter wonderful Emerald before boarding Puffing Billy Railway's Train of Lights
Winter school holidays are near, and you've managed to snag tickets to Puffing Billy Railway's Train of Lights (now sold out!), but want to know what else you can see and do when visiting Emerald and the Dandenong Ranges?
We've pulled together a mighty list of local winter activities for you to do before hopping on the Train of Lights nighttime experience. Don't want to cram the following itinerary into one day? No sweat! Many ideas are below to keep you active throughout the winter school holidays.
Weekday, or weekend itinerary
Bundle into the car, and before heading to Emerald, take a detour to Belgrave for a mid-morning film at Cameo Cinemas. If you arrive early, pop into Belgrave Book Barn and browse their vast collection of books, art supplies, and gifts for all ages.
After a film, it's back in the car for a short drive to Emerald (15 mins). Chuck on some tunes (we love the local Melbourne band Teenie Tiny Stevies). Wiggle your way to Emerald through the forest, rolling hills, and tiny townships to renowned foodie destinations, The General Food Store (open for lunch daily) or visit us here Bam Bam Italian (open for weekend lunch and dinner). Both venues feature kids' menus and vegan options, and here at Bam Bam Italian, we have a covered playground too!
Hot tip: before leaving Belgrave, give The General Food Store a call on 03 5968 3580 to pop your name down for a table! Or, if you're keen to check out Bam Bam Italian for weekend lunch or dinner, book online here.Depending on the weather, you may wish to cosy up inside at the newly refurbished Emerald Library (see their school holiday program). If the weather is nice, head to one of Emerald's local playgrounds, explore Emerald Heritage Walk or do a spot of shopping at Behind the Trees, Kiki & Finch, Tinkers Corner, plus many other retailers! You can also snag another delicious coffee at the cute hole-in-the-wall cafe, Incy Wincy Emerald.
Now, grab your gumboots and head to Emerald Lake Park. Our family loves walking the 45 min loop around Lake Treganowan and Nobelius Lake, or you could burn off lunch with a ride on the Lakeside Paddleboats. Be sure to check out Emerald Lake's indoor Model Railway too!
Then it'll be time for a rest! Head into Lakeside Visitor Centre, grab an early dinner at the Railway Cafe, and browse the Animal Tails exhibition and historic displays while you wait to board the Train of Lights.
Still, want more? Dessert, gelato, and coffee here at Bam Bam Italian will keep you pepped for the drive home – be sure to book ahead here.
Or why not make it a mini-break! With unique and bespoke accommodation on our doorstep, it's a wonder what a night away in the misty Dandenong Ranges can do for you or your family. Check out some accommodation ideas here.
There's so much winter fun in Emerald and the Dandenong Ranges! Be sure to join our mailing list, and follow us on socials to stay in the loop!